0428 A National Survey of 1000 Patients’ and 450 Physicians’ Views and Attitudes on Insomnia Care

Abstract

Abstract Introduction While the importance of restful sleep is espoused by patients and physicians alike, sleep health may not be receiving appropriate consideration during patient visits with HCPs. This study is the first to survey both patients with sleep difficulties as well as physicians who treat insomnia, in order to understand the perspectives of each group. Methods Patient and HCP online surveys were conducted by The Harris Poll from September to October 2021 in the USA. Patient participants were adults ≥18 years with a diagnosis of insomnia by an HCP or with self-reported difficulties sleeping for ≥3 nights/week over ≥3 months. The patient survey consisted of 51 questions pertaining to sleep difficulties, interactions with HCPs, and treatment options. The 34-question HCP survey pertaining to approaches and beliefs regarding insomnia diagnosis and management was completed by primary care physicians (PCPs) and psychiatrists. Results The respondents included 1001 patients (54% female; mean age 44.6 years) and 452 physicians (300 PCPs, 152 psychiatrists) who had opted-in for surveys, sourced from 100+ panels. Notable findings included that a majority of patients with sleep difficulties reported feeling frustrated (54%), irritated (52%), stressed (51%) and/or reported that their mood is negatively impacted (59%). While nearly all PCPs (98%) and psychiatrists (97%) affirmed that sleep is critical to good health, only 12% of PCPs and 24% of psychiatrists routinely conducted a full sleep history.Regarding treatment, 66% of patients did not think that current treatment options adequately improve their trouble sleeping; while 50% of PCPs felt their patients are satisfied with their current treatment. Moreover, 55% of people with trouble sleeping believed that there is a stigma associated with taking prescription sleep medications. Conclusion This first-ever survey of patients with insomnia and doctors treating this condition provides evidence that both groups agree on the importance of sleep and that treatment is often perceived as ineffective. Also of note, relatively few physicians conduct a sleep history and patients report that there is stigma associated with taking medications for insomnia. Most notably, this survey identifies the need to address our limited understanding and the insomnia conversation gap regarding key issues about insomnia treatment. Support (If Any) Idorsia Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.